Philip Mawer, currently secretary general of the General Synod of the Church of England, has been recommended by the House of Commons Commission to replace Elizabeth Filkin as Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards.

The commission proposed that Mr Mawer should be appointed for three years, at a salary of £75,000.

The appointment has to be ratified by the House of Commons.

Speaking for the Commission, Mr Bell said: "I am confident that in Mr Mawer we have a candidate of independence, strength and discretion.

"He is well able to undertake this exacting role and ensure that the system of Parliamentary self-regulation continues to work effectively, and is seen to do so, both inside and outside the House."